Baked Salmon in the Oven

This Baked Salmon in the Oven is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky salmon seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s an easy, healthy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes.
• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
• Flavorful and versatile – Seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs for a delicious taste.
• Minimal cleanup – Simple preparation with easy cleanup.
• Perfectly cooked – The oven ensures even cooking for a juicy, flaky texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp dried oregano (or thyme)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
• Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.

3. Bake the Salmon

• Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
• Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or drizzle with Sriracha.
• Herb Butter Salmon – Use melted butter instead of olive oil and add fresh thyme or rosemary.
• Honey Garlic Salmon – Mix 1 tbsp honey into the garlic-lemon sauce for a touch of sweetness.
• Parmesan Crusted – Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), and it should flake easily with a fork.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely before baking for even cooking.

What sides go well with baked salmon?

Roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad pair well.

Can I bake salmon in foil?

Yes! Wrap the salmon in foil and bake for the same amount of time for extra moisture.

How can I make the salmon crispier?

Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking to add a slight crisp to the top.

Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?

Yes, marinate for up to 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.

What if my salmon is too dry?

Avoid overcooking and consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter before baking.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?

Yes! Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus cook well alongside salmon.

Can I use this recipe for a whole salmon fillet?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time to 18-20 minutes for a larger fillet.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! This salmon dish is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon in the Oven is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare with minimal effort. Whether served with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to impress with its perfectly tender and flaky texture. Try it tonight for a nutritious and flavorful dinner!